Dr. M.V. "Coyote Smith, Col, USAF-Retired

We’re pleased to welcome Coyote Smith back to the program for a wide-ranging and insightful discussion covering topics such as the Grissom Space Seminar, the Space Force's 5th anniversary, great power competition in space, and the evolving nature of space warfare. Toward the end of our 65-minute conversation, Coyote also provided an update on space-based solar power.

We spent 90 minutes talking about the Space Force—its mission, the challenges of weaponizing space, space rescue, asset protection, and cyber defense. We also examined the role of China and Russia as our primary space adversaries.

We received multiple listener calls and emails that contributed thoughtful questions and comments. During our discussion, Coyote offered a quick but insightful analysis of the pros and cons of the Space Force remaining under the Air Force versus becoming an independent service branch. Both he and I agreed that the Space Force should ultimately become a stand-alone military service. As our guest explained, one of the main reasons for this is the allocation of financial and other resources. When filtered through the Air Force, funding can be redirected toward Air Force priorities, sometimes at the expense of Space Force needs.

I also asked Coyote if he felt the Space Force is fully respected by the other military branches or if it still suffers from a certain “giggle factor.” His response to this question was particularly thought-provoking.

We also touched on Artemis, the return to the Moon, and the broader vision for future space development. All in all, it was a fascinating and engaging discussion. We look forward to having Coyote back as a guest again soon—hopefully on a regular basis.

You can find more information about this episode at www.thespaceshow.com for the broadcast dated Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Northrup Grumman, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Helix Space in Luxembourg, Celestis Memorial Spaceflights, Astrox Corporation, Dr. Haym Benaroya of Rutgers University, The Space Settlement Progress Blog by John Jossy, The Atlantis Project, and Artless Entertainment

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Upcoming Shows

Dan Adamo | Sunday 18 May 2025 12:00PM PT

Michael (Coyote) Smith USAF (Ret), Tuesday 20 May 2025 7:00 PM PT

Hotel Mars with John Batchelor | Wednesday 21 May 2025 9:30 AM PT

Clay Mowry, AIAA, Friday 23 May 2025 9:30 AM PT

Memorial Day Weekend No Program | Sunday 25 May 2025 12:00 PM PT

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